How Anxiety Increases Risk Of Falling
How Anxiety Increases Risk Of Falling
How Anxiety Increases Risk Of Falling
Anxiety is characterized by feelings of fear, uneasiness and dread, as well as somatic symptoms such as increased perspiration and tension. Meta-analysis has identified that older adults with elevated levels of anxiety are around twice as likely to experience a fall. Around 20% of older adults are thought to experience at least one type of anxiety disorder. Medication prescribed for anxiety, such as benzodiazepines and other sedatives can increase risk of falling.How Anxiety Increases Risk Of Falling
Whilst anxiety is a vital component of FOF, it has been the subject of various studies as a risk factor for falls in its own right. A review from Hadjistavropoulos, Delbaere, & Fitzgerald (2010) distinguishes between definitions of anxiety and FOF, suggesting that FOF can be described as low self-efficacy toward balance. Hadjistavropoulos, Delbaere, & Fitzgerald argue that FOF and anxiety can be distinguished as certain beliefs can lead to fear and anxiety, crucially without always co-occurring with anxiety. In addition, FOF and anxiety can be distinguished by duration. An older adult may always present a fear of falling – however may only feel anxiety when locomoting, anticipating future locomotion or when contemplating upon past locomotory experiences.